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Raon had never faced so many potential targets before at the same time and he never had to consider the possibility of killing another Beast to save his life. Yes he done it in Raizac's Caravan, however, when that mercenary lynx had tried to end his life while he slept. At that time, it was only due to the rush of adrenaline and the desire for survival which had guided his dagger into the heart of his enemy. Raon hoped to have the same luck at this time.

After picking up the knife to defend himself, he found himself faced with one of the men from Sek's guard, one of those big bulls that had taken him prisoner when he had been delivered to them in the cave where they had found the last vestiges of the ancient civilization.

Raon barely had time to react before the gigantic Beast was on him with horns ahead. Squeezing his fingers tightly around his newly acquired weapon, he made a quick jog to the right, narrowly dodging the onslaught of the bull. He quickly regained his balance until the Beast lifted a huge iron mace in the air and ran towards him in a move that seemed disproportionately fast in relation to its size. The young Human slid and rolled on the ground and then got up and stared at his attacker, trying to find weaknesses.

The body of the bull was completely covered by an imposing iron armor that didn't leave many areas exposed, so any physical attack trying to reach vital points would have been in vain. However, there was something about the enemy's movement that jogged Raon's memory about the huge Beast that had attacked Jarek shortly after escaping Raizac's camp.

Still squatting and watching how the bull was recovering from his last attack, Raon let out a snort moving the damp hair away from his forehead and sat up, moving the knife a little ahead of his own body so as to not be left unprotected. Doing that was risky too, as when he had risked it to fight the other Beast, but unfortunately he had no choice.

The bull returned to strike him with his mace in which, almost certainly, would be a mortal blow. Raon tried to ignore the desperate screams of his instincts, telling him to flee, and held his breath, waiting for the bull's club to begin its deadly trajectory towards his skull. There would be no second chance.

He had to wait for just the right moment.

Finally, he made a rapid movement to one side while raising his fur cloak with one hand to block the bull. He gave out a gasp of surprise, but he barely had time to react before the Human rushed in making a quick feint and climbed upon his back, knife in hand. Despite the continuous shaking by the Beast, which was trying to remove the layer of furs and Raon, the young Human soon found his enemy's neck and slid the knife in one swift movement that opened a jet of warm, sticky blood. The bull still moved for a few seconds before his legs gave out with the Human above and fell to the ground, motionless.

Raon rested for a few moments above the cold armor, unable to move, still contemplating the dead body and blood that now stained his white fur coat. However, he didn't have time to think for very long, since the heat of battle around him reminded him that he had to move if he do not want to end up like his victim. He arose and took a brief look around, trying to distinguish something through the multitude of Beasts attacking each other, beyond that storm of steel and claws which desperately sought to sink into the flesh of their enemies.

Where was Jarek? Raon did not remember having seen him after his last escape attempt and could not help wondering if he had managed to slip away amid the chaos without getting hurt. A growing uneasiness came over him, as he began to move toward the makeshift gallows that had been prepared for them by Ronod last night, where he was last seen. <<Damn it>> he thought, with a sinking heart, as he hurried to move on trying to avoid the fights already begun and potentially dangerous enemies. <<Jarek can't defend himself. As long as Ronod remains rather watchful...

The young Human could not even think about it.

He knew the depths of evil that the white lynx could reach, and already knew his twisted mind. He should not have been so easily distracted from Jarek, even when that bull had rushed towards him...

Immersed in his worries, he barely noticed the sharp hiss of a steel blade all too close to him, until he felt a sharp pain in his arm. Surprised, Raon let out a cry of pain, but did not take even half a second to turn around and faced the one who had just tried to attack him from behind.

His gaze met that of a gray furred young wolf who at that very moment drove his sword forward with a violent lunge. If it had reached him, the sword would have completely perforated his stomach. Raon barely managed to leap back at the last moment, but due to the extra weight of the blood soaking his fur coat, lost his balance and stumbled, falling to the ground.

A gleam of triumph flashed in the eyes of the gray wolf, as he raised the sword above his head and let out a cry of victory, ready to take a death blow with which to take the young Human's life forever.

Raon gritted his teeth, knowing he would not be able to avoid it in time.

However, at that time a violent tremor ran through the gray wolf who, frozen in that last position, let out a yelp of pain. The Human stood still, not daring to move a muscle, until another brutal convulsion shook the body of his enemy, this time splashing a good amount of blood on Raon, who could not help but close his eyes instinctively. When he opened them, a few seconds later, he found someone who initially he failed to recognize because of the thick layer of blood covering his fur and the huge ax he was carrying.

-What happened? -Ailec asked, smiling with a tired smile -. Have you already surrendered, Link?

-Ailec! -Raon exclaimed, smiling and getting up quickly, feeling a wave of relief, although that bull was the last person he would have expected to find in this situation -. What are you doing here?

-The same as all our men. But there is no time now, we have to get out of here.

That said, he turned and plunged back into the tide of people.

-Wait, Ailec! -called Raon, directing an indecisive look back -. I have to find Jarek!

The bull turned to him and seemed to hesitate for a moment.

-We have Jarek -he finally said, turning around as he raised his ax to break through -. Follow me, come on!

Raon took a few moments to react, but decided to trust the word of the bull and started to follow briskly. While trying to maintain his rapid pace, he could not help to take a look around to see with his own eyes the cruelty of the scene.

The sun was rising beyond the hills and the screams were slowly fading, at the same time the land was filled with bloody corpses. Many had fallen, yes, but others were still standing tall, trying to save his life. Raon shook his head in awe, knowing that this was neither the first nor the last battle had been fought for him, nor the bloodiest. It was simply one more battle.

Ailec dispatched several enemies with a single stroke, demonstrating that, contrary to what Raon would have thought about someone who was limited to traveling in a caravan, he knew well enough how to handle the ax in his hands. The Beasts who crossed his path, trying to cut them off, fell to the ground like broken straw; Raon was not sure whether to look away avoid seeing their expressions and the blood that flowed from their dead bodies or to take a brief look to make sure they were dead. This was simply something that overwhelmed him. <<There is only one who can stop it >> he thought to himself as he went on.

Even in this grim scenario, there was still a spark of hope.

Finally, he and Ailec reached the outskirts of the camp and practically crawled up the hill that was behind him, quickly descending on the other side to hide out of the sight from their enemies as fast as possible. Raon virtually dropped by the slope of the hill, feeling the cold icy bite of the snow through his precarious footwear, and cold of dawn scratching his bones. However, it did not take too long to reach the foot of the small hill and they stopped, gasping for breath.

When Raon looked up again, he discovered that he and Ailec were not the only ones who had decided to take refuge behind the hill. Dozens of Beasts moved frantically from one side to the other, communicating with each other practically shouting while providing themselves with armor and weapons of all kinds. Once prepared for battle, wolves, bulls, lynxs and hares began to climb up the hill, heading back in the opposite direction from which Raon and Ailec had just came, towards Ronod's camp.

The young Human gave a look of astonishment at the bull that had just brought him here only a few minutes ago. He shrugged his shoulders.

-We were traveling towards Walker Hill with the caravan, and it happens to be one of the few inhabited bases that can be found in the Wilderness. Well, I actually doubt it was a coincidence -Ailec growled, frowning -. I bet this was all my father's idea. The point is that last night when we got there after several days of travel, we settled down and chatted a bit with the leaders of the base.They were the ones who told us that, just hours before we showed up, a black wolf had reached their base.

-A black wolf?

-Yes, -Ailec replied, somewhat annoyed by the interruption -. They told us that, despite his impassive countenance, he spoke of the war between races with such overwhelming passion that you could almost see his eyes shine. And that he had asked them to help save those he claimed were the last hope for this world to end the conflict.

-Is Rukj all right? -Raon wondered, unable to restrain himself.

-Will you stop asking questions and let me finish? -Ailec protested, letting out a snort of exasperation -. We met Rukj and he explained the situation. We brought together all the men of arms who were traveling in the caravan and all that were in the base. Those who were willing to fight, of course. Not everyone was willing to take a stand for a mere Human and a captive wolf.

Raon blinked several times, unable to believe his ears.

-Are you saying that all these people have come here to fight... for us?

Ailec crossed his arms, smiling.

-Of course. You are not as alone as you believe, you know?

The young Human then noticed a strange feeling that, until that moment, he had few opportunities to feel. It was a strange warmth in his chest, an almost imperceptible relief, albeit small, that removed a great load off him, giving him strength to keep going and not to be overcome so soon by circumstances.

It was just knowing that he was not alone, that someone fought at his side, he was not the only one risking his life for that cause.

It was the death of his loneliness. The birth of hope.

But he did not have much time to think about it, after all, not too far from there a pitched battle was still continued, although practically finished already, that meant that there was no time to get carried away by emotions. There would be time enough to think about that later. Now he had other concerns in mind.

-Where is Jarek? -he then asked, remembering that he had not yet find him since the battle at the camp had begun.

Ailec frowned and, instead of answering him, let out a sigh.

-Before I answer that, I want to ask you something. -The young bull's expression turned grim -. I tried to ask Rukj, but he would not tell me about it. He said that there would be time to give me explanations when we found you... and that does not reassure me much. So I would prefer that you tell me plainly, now that we have found you.

Raon could not help feeling a chill as he guessed what Ailec meant.

-Raon... where is Loki?

The Human was slow to react.

For a moment, the face of the young lynx had appeared before him with a chilling clarity and he was slow to remember that, after all, he would never see him alive again. Perhaps, if circumstances had been different, Raon could have given an almost immediate response, pretending it had not hurt him as much as it had actually done, lying to avoid having to tell Ailec the truth that seemed so unfair. But he appreciated Loki too, and knew he would not have wanted that.

With a heavy heart, Raon lifted his head to answer the bull's question, but as soon as the gazes met, the young Human knew that he had understood everything.

-No... -Ailec whispered, stepping back a bit with a face contorted in a grimace of anguish and grief.

-We could not do anything -Raon said with a weak voice, as he looked, unable to bear the pain any longer in the bull's expression -. The attack came from where we least expected... I think Ronod had it all figured out.

Ailec did not respond.

He had lowered his head and shook violently, with fists clenched around the handle of his ax.

-Ronod... -he spat, as if his name turned to acid in his mouth.

-The white lynx who imprisoned us -Raon explained, with sunken shoulders -. The same one that tortured Loki a few weeks before... in Frostmoon...

The Human did not know what else to add.

On one hand he felt forced to give that information to the young bull, but then he understood all too well what had to be going through his head at that moment. He had not been able to bear the idea that, after much struggle, the young messenger lynx of the Kara's Cubs Order, had died at the hands of Ronod, representing everything opposed to their ideals.

It was unfair and in a way, outrageous. Not only for the fact that of losing the life of a friend, someone close to them , but because, on the other hand , it almost seemed as if fate had decided to play in support of their enemies, who wanted to prolong that same unnecessary war plagued by deaths. And that was not a pleasant prospect.

-Ailec, I... -Raon started, looking for words with which to comfort, but had to stop.

The huge bull raised his head before letting him finish, let out a scream of rage and sadness, which was lost in the sky as a lament of agonizing regret and the deepest despair. Raon, somewhat intimidated, flinched and heard Ailec's knuckles crunching around that heavy ax.

He had no time to stop him before that, his eyes illuminated by a bloodthirsty rage, began to head towards Ronod's camp with great strides.

-Ailec wait! -he exclaimed, trying to stop him, and took a step towards the hill, ready to reach him.

But then, another hand closed around his wrist and stopped him on the site, insistently.

Raon let out a gasp and turned to the Beast who had stopped his advance. It took him a moment to recognize it, even though its characteristic jet black figure loomed great against the snow, and as he did not know whether to be relieved or, conversely, worry even more.

-Inoa -he murmured, as he fixed his gaze on the face of the hare he had met long ago at Raizac's camp -. What are you doing here?

-I am a member of the caravan, if you can't remember -she told the youth, shrugging her shoulders -. As I knew that you had been captured, I told myself I had to come to help you. I could not sit idly by knowing that Loki's mission had... failed.

Raon felt a stab in his heart.

-Loki ... -he murmured, looking at Inoa.

-I know, I've heard everything -the hare interrupted, taking his arm and squeezing gently to give him encouragement. She then hesitated a moment before reaching one of her paws in the folds of her clothes and get a small water skin from her belt - . Here, drink some water. It will do you some good.

The young man then realized that his throat was dry.

Unable to avoid rushing a little bit to the skin, took it in his hands and drank deeply, closing his eyes. He could not remember when he had been the last time he had drunk water. Maybe even before entering the cave where the remains of ancient civilization were? Once he had satisfied his thirst, wiped his lips with the back of his hand and, seeing that it was full of blood, used the remaining water to clean a little face and hands.

-Thank you -he said, after having done all this, letting out a sigh of relief.

-Not at all, it's the least I could do -Inoa muttered, looking away. Then she let out a small sigh and began to walk, still holding Raon's arm -. I did not expect it of Loki. I always thought that he would find a way to prove that I was wrong and that, after all, the Masters of Kara's Cubs Order had done well to pick him. That was a possibility I did not like, but I did not want this to happen either...

Raon bit his lower lip, starting to advance automatically with the hare, as he turned to what she had just said.

-I guess he wanted to prove the same thing -he said faintly.

-It is a real shame that he did not succeed -Inoa said, looking up and caressing an ear with her free hand, thoughtfully -. The truth is that now, from this perspective, everything looks different. I do not know and what credibility to give to the words of Mother Kara. It is true that you are here, but... What about all the setbacks that you have been through? Could she not have mentioned them in any of her mystical experiences?

-That would have been useful, yes -Raon admitted, taking a brief look back, unable to pay attention to Iona's words -. Hey, aren't we moving away from the camp...?

-Oh, don't worry, I do not think anyone would miss us. They have practically won the battle; now they have to retreat and decide what to do -said the hare, continuing to walk -But... I remember when I met Loki, a long, long time ago. He was hardly more than a kitten and I had not even grown my ears, but we both knew well that we wanted to enter to serve Kara's Cubs Order... Of course at that time there was too much to learn, so much information to store in our little heads! I was always advancing, of course, but he stayed not far behind. We had both learned the Web Treaty just weeks after entering the Order!

Raon nodded slowly.

For some strange reason he could not understand, he had the feeling that the words of the hare came from far away and it seemed a terrible effort to pay attention. It almost felt like someone had dipped his head under a basin of warm water and everything he heard was damped by the liquid.

But Inoa continued talking.

-... hundreds of letters and prophecies, a million lessons to remember. We were taken to the council of the Masters of the Order and gave us a series of individual questions, none related to what we have studied so far. I guess, in some way, that was why Loki was able to beat me in that test -Raon blinked a few times, unable to understand anything, trying to clear his thoughts -. The decision came after several days... I remember I could hardly sleep the night before. I was so nervous.

At that point, Raon stopped and Inoa looked up, confused.

Something was not right, something in his head that was not as it should be, and the young Human did not know what it was. He fixed his eyes, somewhat scared, on the face of the hare, watching him with an evident mixture of impatience and curiosity. After a few seconds during which none of them said anything, the girl's lips curled into a slight smile.

-Thank goodness -she murmured to herself -. I was beginning to run out of stories to entertain you.

Raon was barely able to hear the last word. He only heard within his mind, as if repeated by a distant echo, the words that the hare had said before:

<<Oh, don't worry, I do not think anyone would miss us.>>

There was something odd about that, but his thoughts did not flow and he was unable to think clearly. It was at that precise moment, as if someone had turned off the power that kept him running, his legs buckled and he fell to the ground like a lifeless puppet.

The battle still raged in Ronod's camp.

The initial confusion caused by the surprise attack from Raizac's men had baffled his enemies, so despite having a disadvantage due to a slight numerical inferiority, the Commissioner's troops had nothing to do. The few who remained were desperately torn between life and death, trying to survive a battle that almost certainly was not theirs.

Ailec knew all this, but at the time was unable to think about it. In his mind he could only see Loki's face over and over when he had dismissed him weeks ago with the promise that, once their mission was over, he would return to his side and continue where they had left off. At that time, he had felt the overwhelming desire not to let him go and ask him to stay by his side, or at least allow him to accompany him on his journey. He had felt real fear of the prospect of losing him forever on that disastrous trip, but had finally decided to let him go alone, aware that, as his place was in his father's caravan, the young lynx's place was next to the Links trying to teach them the way that they should move forward.

Now, knowing what had happened, he would have given anything to go back in time and change that decision. He knew it was unlikely, but he wanted to think that, just perhaps, Loki would not have suffered that terrible fate if he had dared to leave his father behind and accompanied him on the journey. The simple idea that his worst fears had been confirmed and a future with Loki no longer existed made his heart ache, and gripped him with the deepest despair.

And anger.

He did not know how or why, but he needed to release it on something or someone, and his ax cried for blood.

Those Beasts probably had not had anything to do Loki's death, but that at the time it mattered very little.

Only that he had a thirst for revenge, and did not care who would satiate it, even knowing that none of those million deaths could bring Loki back to life. Therefore, the steel of his ax whistled through the camp, crushing bones, ripping their guts and tearing through bodies while singing a mortal song of steel and blood. Most of his enemies decided not to confront him and tried to escape. In some cases, Ailec let them go, but in others he was not content to see them run and made sure to hunt them and forced them to fight.

He could not have said how long he remained in the camp, trying to appease his fury amid the chaos. Only when he came to himself, having killed a wolf that had been about to catch up with his ax, he heard someone unknown say his name from behind.

The bull turned around, and despite his huge ax in hand, was met with a stern look from amber eyes watching him with disapproval.

-What are you doing? -Rukj gently asked, but Ailec thought he heard in his voice a slight tone of reproach.

On the other hand, he failed to answer the wolf's question.

-Is something wrong? -he asked in return.

However, no response was needed to understand what Rukj meant.

Suddenly, while the anger gradually faded from his mind, a bitter revelation began to take control of it. It was as if it had always been there, asleep, but until then it had not decided to speak out and be heard.

Loki would not have wanted this.

Silently Ailec stared at the ax he now held and could not help feeling a shudder of disgust to see both his weapon and himself completely covered in blood. <<If he had been here>> he thought <<he would have been disappointed>>. Suddenly he felt terribly ashamed of himself.

After a few seconds, the bull raised his eyes and took a step toward Rukj, nodding slowly to show his appreciation. The wolf, however, was unmoved.

-Where is Raon? -he asked after a few seconds -. I thought I saw him leaving the camp with you.

Ailec blinked thoughtfully.

-I left him with the others. If I remember correctly, he was with Inoa when I left. I guess that annoying hare wanted to ask him all the details of his mission. Sometimes she is so stifling... What is it? -he asked, seeing Rukj frowning with concern -. Is something wrong?

Raon gritted his teeth as he tried to move in vain.

His mind had cleared a bit at the same time he had fallen down, but now he had the horrifying sensation that he had completely lost control of his own body. Now, lying on snow haphazardly, trying to understand what exactly had happened and, more importantly, what would happen next.

However, he didn't need to reach those conclusions by himself.

The young Human heard the light steps of small boots very close to his ear and tried to turn his head to see anything, but even his neck refused to obey. It was as if someone had cut all the strings that tied him to his body at once and now he was trapped in that awkward position, no longer able to move.

-My mother used to be an herbalist, you know, Raon? -Inoa began to talk, still behind him -. I never saw the purpose of her position. Only prescribing herbs to a handful of old men with back pain, insomnia, and other problems that did not affect us at all. But hey, I guess you can always learn something, even from the most stupid and absurd events of your life. It's inevitable.

-W... why? -Raon asked with effort. His throat was dry and his tongue was heavy, like rag in the middle of his mouth. That fact could not help but seem ironic, given that it was a drink of water which had unleashed his condition.

-Why? -asked the hare, with a slight chuckle. Not answering immediately, but she took her time and moved a little closer to Raon, appearing to the left of his field of vision -. Why, did you say?

The Human gasped, trying to move again, this time harder.

The situation did not look promising and worst of all, he did not know exactly what Inoa's motivations were, or what she intended. Until then, even in his darkest nightmares he would have never considered that this hare could have posed a threat, but under the circumstances, it was clear that he was wrong.

-Loki was not prepared to play the part he assumed. He was always too weak. Even with all the necessary knowledge, he lacked the absolute determination that someone should have in order to lead the Links to their destination, no matter what they thought. Did you not notice it, Raon? It almost seemed as if you were guiding him... instead of him guiding you.

Raon said nothing.

-No... Loki was not prepared to be the one of the Order. He was too young, too soft and inexperienced in life. He was just a simple son of merchants, sheltered and often away from his parents. Not a good choice -Inoa continued, slowly removing some snow with a paw -. The Masters of the Order should have chosen me! Who better than I knew all the manuscripts of the mother Kara exactly to the letter? Who had prepared themselves for the test as long as I did studying? Who else could prove their worth more than me?

-No... -Raon mumbled, from the snow -. That... is wrong...

-What did you say?

The Human let out a weary sigh, unshaken in his efforts to try and rise up to escape from Inoa. He believed he could perceive the smallest movement from his little finger, but he could not be certain.

He had to distract the hare for as long as possible.

-No... you shouldn't have studied... Mother Kara's text -he explained, slowly, in part because he could not move his mouth faster and partly because he desperately needed more time -. The Elders... they knew...

-They knew what? -Inoa replied, giving a stomp to the ground, with an angry tone -. Do you mean to tell me that Loki was better prepared than me? That is absurd! He spent hours lost in daydreams... and secretly, when he thought no one was watching him, he spent his time watching all the boys in the Order with the hope that some of them would notice him!

Raon opened his eyes, not believing what he had just heard.

-Oh, perhaps you did not expect that "your messenger" had such a peculiar taste in regard to his partners? -the hare smiled, misinterpreting his surprise -. Perhaps it would have been better if you had known that the lynx leading you on your path had deviated from his own. But no, he kept it a secret! Just like a coward!

The Human closed his eyes, feeling a pain inside, but not for the reasons Inoa had believed.

He had just remembered that conversation, long ago, they had been on the banks of the lake. At that time, he had exposed his own doubts to Loki about how he felt for Jarek, not realizing that the lynx was also dealing with his own doubts. Who could have been the one that had awakened in him the same feelings that Raon had experienced back then? However, Raon soon set aside that question from his mind, convinced that it was not what mattered now.

Loki had advised him that he understood and knew how he felt. As both of them had been chosen by a superior group and each had a mission to fulfill, the two had both been confronted with the same doubts about what their hearts dictated to them. Now he could see it clearly and for a few seconds, he could not help but feel close as he identified strongly with the blue eyed young lynx that had guided him along his journey.

-No, he definitely was not a good choice -continued Inoa, letting out a sharp laugh -. I knew from the first moment that he would never be able to fulfill his mission and the only thing he would do is prolong the agony of this World. And, just like when you've found a dying rat at your door and decide to kill it to save it from suffering... I decided to do the same with this World. And Ronod offered to help.

Raon let out a gasp of surprise, realizing for the first time since the conversation had begun to what extent he was in danger.

-Mother Kara's ideas were based on the idea that this world is engulfed by an imbalance and in the idea that the Web, that all of us, have become separated. This war faces all its children and therefore we must find ways to achieve reconciliation between the two sides -she said, still sitting next to Raon -. But there are several ways to achieve this balance, although Mother Kara was not able to see it at the time.

>>She always thought that the possibility of peace was the only way to keep this world alive. And yet, there was something much simpler than that to achieve the balance that both liked to talk about. With the extermination of one of the two races, the fighting would cease altogether. And in that way, the world would be returned to order, as she always wanted. But only with one of the two races though, after all, who can ensure that this will not be a better future than the one that waits us if we continue like this? Mother Kara was an idealist. She indulged her fantasies and gave a nonexistent guarantee of her visions in order to drag us all after her for a dream that could never be fulfilled. But after the Masters of the Order rejected me, I decided I was tired of chasing dreams that didn't exist, and besides, no one allowed me to take part. I was tired of waiting.

>>I could contact Sek much easier than I would have expected. The Commissioner of Frostmoon was just as quick get in touch with Ronod, and I told him of all the intentions of our Order and many details, including the mission that they had had reserved for Loki. Since then, all of Sek's men started looking for a young blue-eyed lynx that, after several days of searching, he was found drinking with no less than Rukj, the wolf who had been rejected by the entire society of the Beasts. He is your "father", is he not? Don't you think it was a beautiful coincidence that they both were in Frostmoon so the two of them could be caught at the same time? Well, who knows... perhaps, after all, Mother Kara was not that crazy.

>>However, the capturing of Rukj and Loki only solved half of our problem. To successfully avoid any interference we had to take care of you two Links, and find and eliminate both of you. That was our own mission, one that was never given to me by my Order. So Ronod, Sek and I devised a plan whereby Rukj and Loki would be released, on the chance that we could then track them and find you two. The first plan we came up with consisted of murdering one of you quietly, when you both still didn't quite know what was your role in this story was. It was not difficult to bribe one of the lynxes in Raizac's caravan to do the dirty work. Unfortunately for us, though it cost you one of your fingers, he failed.

>>But Ronod had another plan already prepared. We decided to wait until after you arrived at your destination, guided by Loki. Once there, we would capture you, kill you, and after that we could take care of removing anything that we might find in the place you were going to.

Inoa stretched a little and let out a yawn, a little tired after talking for so long without a break.

At her side Raon was sorting through the thoughts in his head, too bewildered by everything he had been told by the hare. He felt he needed to organize all the information in his head before digesting it. In fact, even in those circumstances, the fact that Inoa had betrayed them still seemed so inconceivable.

-The plan went wrong this morning, again -she finished, disappointedly clicking her tongue -. We had to do something; we risked losing everything we had fought for. Luckily, I had a something up my sleeve. And you were just trusting enough for it to work.

Raon clenched his fists, trying to hold back his rage.

He could not help it, the mocking tone of the hare so infuriated him, especially considering how she had spoken of Loki earlier. As helpless he was, he simply could not tolerate the way Inoa had insulted the memory of his guide... no, his friend. He just could not.

-Now that I think about it, Loki shares that quality with you -she continued, as if reading his thoughts -. I guess you were both always just as weak in that aspect! It is not compassion that will get us out of this war, Raon. And that is something that neither you or Loki could ever understand.

The Human let out a gasp of anger, feeling his own nails digging into the palms of his hands, as he clenched his fists together so hard. It was then when a sudden revelation, sparked by that little spike of pain, came to his mind.

At that moment, Inoa began a sharp and shrill laugh, just as revolting as the rest of the conversation had been up to that time.

-But, what else could you expect from someone who could not even admit it to himself and had to keep his feelings a secret? That poor miserable lynx! Ha ha ha!

-Shut up! -Raon yelled at the time, knowing that the time to take action had come.

During Inoa's little speech he had barely realized that he had been recovering his strength gradually, until he had noticed the pain that was caused from tightening both fists. Now he knew he had some energy, and he was not going to waste time waiting for that hateful hare to tarnish over the memory of Loki.

In just a split second, the young man sat up quickly and pulling the knife he had found in Ronod's camp from his belt he directed a rapid slash towards a surprised Inoa, who could only let out a shriek of horror as she drew back in an instinctive movement.

However, it was not fast enough to dodge Raon's blow and the knife tore away her neck tourmaline pendant that identified her as a member of the Kara's Cubs Order, while slashing her clothes and skin that lay beneath them. A trail of crimson blood bathed the snow at her feet, staining the multicolored flashes of the tourmaline a darker hue.

-How... dare you... -Raon shouted, still holding the knife between him and the Hare -... speak of Loki that way. Someone... who gave his life for your stupid Order ... -he spat, with fire in his eyes -. I can not believe that in this world there are people still as despicable... as you!

Inoa had retreated a few steps, with one paw holding the wound that the young Human had caused in her chest, breathing hard as she watched with a mixture of hatred and fear.

-This is the proof of why the Order did not choose you -continued Raon, trying to remain on his feet though the effort was beginning to take its toll -. You're nothing more than a damn liar full of envy! You do not understand at all... the true ideals that Loki had! -the Human raised his voice trembling with rage -. He made us believe in a better world... while you intend to destroy it! Just because you were rejected by the Order!

The hare was trembling violently, Raon could not tell if from anger brought about by his words or the pain that her injury must be causing, but her look of utter contempt left no room for doubt.

However, the young Human did not have much time to think about it.

Just seconds after saying those words, Inoa expression changed completely and threw her head back and started laughing out loud, with that high, squeaky laugh that Raon had begun to hate.

-He made you believe in a better world, huh? And what good is that if you no longer have any future? -the hare continued, flashing a wry smile -. You should look behind you, Raon... and realize that although you don't know it yet, you've already lost this battle.

The youth thought it was a strategy to mislead him, but he could not help but give a brief glance back from the corner of his eye.

What he saw made his blood run cold in his veins.

Inoa had not intended to finish him off at any time, although she had drugged him with the water she had given him to drink. No, her plan had been different from the very start, although he had not been able to see it at the time...

Through out their long talk, the hare had kept him there, immobilized and entertained, until the one who would actually kill him arrived. And now, even if he had managed to fight back and take Inoa by surprise, he could not defeat the enemies who had come to her rescue. Not even taking into consideration that the effects of the strange poison still lingered.

The Beast that Inoa had waited so long for while talking about Loki was no more or less than the Commissioner of Frostmoon, Sek. And he was not alone: several of the men who had escaped the slaughter of the camp were accompanying him.

-Human Raon -he started saying, gravely. He seemed most unhappy with the situation they were in, and the death of most of his men probably didn't help either -. You are accused of organizing a direct attack on the authority and promoting a revolt against the order. If you come with us peacefully, we'll take you to Frostmoon, where you will undergo a trial that will decide your sentence.

-Organizing an attack and promoting a revolt? -Raon asked, turning his back to Inoa, which he considered a less dangerous enemy, and facing Sek -. How can I have something organized if you had me locked in a wagon away from your camp?

Sek frowned, but was unfazed.

-The other option would be that you resisted arrest... in which case we would have to kill you now. Obey or be eliminated. You decide, Human.

Raon gritted his teeth and prepared to give an answer, but there was someone who did it before him.

-I'm afraid you should reconsider your offer -said someone, not far from there -. Raon has another option you have deliberately overlooked.

The young Human let out a gasp of surprise and turned toward the voice he had just heard, coming from a small hillside not far away. Although he could still feel the effects in his body of whatever it was that Inoa had make him drink, he could not help but feel an immense joy as he discovered Rukj, Ailec, Raizac and several Beasts from the bull's caravan at the top of a small hill not far away.

Without missing a beat, he rose from his heels and tried to get away from Inoa, still with his knife raised, approaching the group of his allies. He stumbled a few times and had to crawl to reach them, but once he was there he felt infinitely more relaxed and secure that just moments before, when he had been lying on the ground next to Inoa.

The hare, meanwhile, watched him go and made no move to stop him. Nor did it seem to matter much to Sek.

-What option are you talking about, outlaw? -Sek replied, frowning -. Do you think your troop of bandits can face the forces of Frostmoon's Commissioner and come out of that confrontation alive? Do not make me laugh.

-Well -Rukj replied softly, with a menacing twinkle in his eyes -. I thought the fact that we've slaughtered your camp in just a few minutes would have convinced you that it is not such a crazy idea.

The low blow affected the Commissioner as he clenched his fists, glaring intensely at the wolf with hatred, who was unfazed. Inoa, even with a paw over the wound in her chest, let out a small sound of distain and backed away towards Sek, unable to tear her gaze from Raon, who she watched with contempt that almost bordered on revulsion. The young Human had moved beside Ailec and remained standing despite the effort, returning a defiant look of hardness.

-However, I think we have killed too many men today -Rukj continued, adopting a more conciliatory tone -. I counted the casualties in your camp, Sek, and as you know, is not a nice number. We have also lost many of our men and having to lose even more to regain Raon is not something that excites us either. I suppose on that you will agree with me.

-Any of my men would be willing to die to preserve the established order -said the Commissioner, with fierce gesture -. Still...

Rukj waited, while behind him, Raizac and Ailec exchanged a look of understanding. There was an awkward long silence between the two sides, which lasted for a few long moments, while the wind from the Beasts Lands softly moaned.

-Even so, I agree with you -Sek ended up, looking away -. There has been too much blood spilled already today -then he looked again and staring into Rukj's eyes inquisitively -. What do you propose?

The black wolf took his time before answering.

-There is a way to decide how to get out of this situation -he explained gently -. I propose that we both face each other, on equal terms ... in a fight to the death. If you are the victor, you can stay with Raon and subject him to any trial you consider appropriate. My men will leave and not oppose you with any resistance, assuming that we lose this fight. But if I am the winner -he paused -your men will leave without a fight. That also goes for Inoa. All of you will have to leave and realize that you have lost your chance to catch the Link.

Sek seemed to ponder his answer for a few moments, assessing his chances. Raon held his breath, knowing that this might be his last chance to escape alive from there.

-A duel, huh? -the Commissioner finally answered -. Well, I accept. What are your conditions?

-A sword duel -Rukj answered almost immediately, as if he had planned this -. You and me, alone. Any intervention by another Human or Beast will cancel our deal.

Sek kept his gaze even for a moment, but finally stepped forward and said:

-I accept.

Rukj nodded and glanced sideways at Raon, he did not know exactly how to interpret the gesture. Raizac then moved toward the black furred wolf and placed one of his hooves on his shoulder, grimly.

-Are you sure about this, Rukj?

-We have already talked about this before, there is no other choice -the wolf replied, letting out sigh of resignation, and then turned towards one of the Beasts who accompanied them to take a sword -. As things stand, provoking another confrontation would be counterproductive. The only way out of this situation without causing more bloodshed than is necessary is this way.

-But I could have fought in your place -Ailec intervened, stepping forward -. I do not feel comfortable knowing that you are going to risk your life again by...

-Do not underestimate me, young bull -Rukj interrupted him, with a half smile -. I may have gone a long time without brandishing a sword, but I can assure you that over the years I have not forgotten at all the art of killing. And Sek is not as easy a rival as you think... I would say that I have a better chance of killing him than you do. If only because I know his way of fighting better.

Ailec frowned.

• Rukj -Raon then called him, moving a couple of steps toward him, still weak from the effects of the poison -. Do... something for me.

The black wolf studied him with his deep amber eyes, watching him for a few seconds, waiting. Raon bit his lower lip, not knowing exactly what to say.

-Don't die, please -he finally said.

-Calm yourself, little boy -Raizac said, pushing him gently and causing him stagger back a bit -. Your father has survived far more dangerous situations than this. You should have known him fifteen years ago, when he was a young cub.

Raon said nothing, but inside he could not help feeling anxious.

Rukj, for his part, did not answer. He simply returned a long look that was meant to be reassuring and then started walking towards Sek, with his newly acquired sword in hand. The bull had already separated from their group and was watching him with a neutral expression while swinging a sword of medium size in his hand, gauging its weight.

-There is still time to back out -the bull spoke, without changing his expression one iota.

Rukj not respond to the provocation. Instead, he raised his head and said:

-I believe I said that we should fight on equal terms, Sek. I see you still are wearing your armor. If you're so afraid to fight me, then you'd better protect with it instead of with your attempts to cancel this duel. But, of course, by doing this you would not be honoring our agreement.

The bull took a moment to react, caught by surprise.

However, if the words of the wolf bothered him, he did not show it. He just turned around and slowly removed all the pieces of his armor, leaving his torso naked just like the black furred wolf. Rukj meticulously observed this, perhaps trying to find any weaknesses in the mobility of his enemy, but could not.

Raon, meanwhile, watched the scene with a heavy heart. Despite being a strong and agile hunter, Rukj was much smaller and stockier than Sek, which had the typical stocky muscular build of the bulls. Beside him, the wolf seemed to be an insignificant opponent, although young Human knew he was not and that, in most cases, a direct confrontation with him would be lethal. Raon expected, despite having less body mass than Sek, Rukj would survive the battle by taking advantage of his speed and cunning... but, knowing that the bull was none other than the Commissioner of Frost Moon, Raon was certain that things would not be so simple.

-Do you also want me to remove the mesh? -the bull then asked, with a contemptuous tone.

Rukj smiled a bit.

-No, that's fine -he said, raising his sword -. Anytime you are ready.

The bull watched him carefully, frowning.

As good strategist, Rukj was able to guess the thoughts that went through the head of his enemy in that situation. He had no doubt at the time that Sek had figured out his strategy, and thought he was allowing him to attack first as a gesture of good faith and use the first movement of the bull to analyze how he fought and how to deal with it in battle. At the end of the day, the two had fought together in the battle against the Humans, years ago. Rukj knew that Sek knew him well. Or at least, the bull thought so.

Knowing this, the black wolf did not have to wait more than a few hundredths of a second for the bull to process that information and assume that his enemy would allow him make the first blow, even if it was for his own benefit.

And once Sek had assumed this, Rukj attacked.

The attack was so quick and fast that none of those present were able to follow his movement, and suddenly it was almost like a black shadow had rushed against the bull, holding high a sharp sword that made a deadly arc toward the waist of his enemy. That beginning was so unexpected and came as a complete surprise to Sek, who raised his sword just in time to prevent the first blow of his enemy from finishing him. And then, without wasting more time, he raised his sword, ready again to attack the outlaw and end this battle quickly.

However, Rukj knew the time had come to move on and performed an agile feint, standing at one of Sek's flanks, where he returned to attack. The bull stopped his swing and once their swords clashed, and pushed hard to separate again. The wolf was smaller than him, and thus had significantly less strength, so he was forced to take a step back and again raise the sword between him and his enemy, with a menacing twinkle in the depths of his amber eyes.

-What a despicable way to start a battle is that, Rukj? -he asked without lowering his sword for a second -. You offer your enemy a first strike and then pounce on him? I never would have imagined that you could fall so low.

-I've changed -replied the wolf, shrugging.

That said, he again attacked with astonishing speed, chaining together several thrusts that drove back the bull, which was having serious difficulty being able to dodge or deflect those blows in time. For having gone so long without carrying a sword, Rukj proved to be impressively skillful in its handling. Sek had met him a while back and knew that in the field the black wolf had learned to use more weapons apart from his sharp claws. And when the two had fought side by side, he had the opportunity to know that he could be even more deadly than he ever seemed.

Not too far away, Raon watched the battle intently. It was true that Rukj seemed to have taken the lead at the time, continuously running fast movements while keeping the bull back, but he was not so sure that things would remain so easy. His gaze drifted to Inoa, who was with Sek's men. The Human could not help but see that the hare had stopped bleeding and concluded that most likely the wound he had caused was no more than a scratch. Quietly, he regretted not having been able to hurt her more severely and turned back to look to where Sek and Rukj fought.

At that time Sek seemed to have managed to take the advantage from the wolf and had begun to string together a series of heavy blows that threatened to break Rukj's sword from one moment to the next. The steels released sparks while Rukj retreated, trying to find a way to escape the situation.

Then he had an idea.

Of course, he make a great effort to appear impassive and the bull did not notice that, inwardly, already that the battle was won. At the end of the day, a cautious enemy was much more difficult to defeat, an enemy who believed he had victory assured. For this reason, he was aware of the fact that his fighting in the past alongside Sek was playing in his favor without a doubt; the bull was sure to know how he did things and, therefore, believed he was prepared for any kind of strategy that the wolf would use to try and gain ground. But Rukj thought to go beyond that. After all, those fifteen years had not passed in vain.

Gritting his teeth, he tried to deflect Sek's blows and, as he sensed a slight hesitation in the next stroke, took the opportunity to take the lead and begin to press his attack quickly, aware that none of his strikes were destined to reach the body of bull, but to wear down his defensive ability.

However, Sek soon predicted this, because he didn't hesitate take a step back to dodge the last lunge and launched a quick two-handed strike would have beheaded Rukj if he had not ducked in time. The wolf heard the whistle from the blade of the sword as it sliced through the air while performing his dodge, and he knew he had to hurry and be very careful if he want to carry out his plan. Apparently, Sek was dead serious.

He sat up quickly and defended another attack from Sek, interposing his sword between him and his enemy, but the bull was much stronger than him and pushed back hard, knocking him off balance again. Still, Rukj tried to move fast and regained his balance again just before Sek lashed out at him with the sword in front. Accurately gauging the speed of their movements, the black wolf ran a quick feint and attacked the bull from the side in a lethal lunge, however, that left his right flank very exposed...

Sek knew well how to take advantage of this and turned just in time to deflect Rukj's blow, launching a dangerous lunge higher then, as he let out a triumphant cry.

The blow hit home and the steel of the sword sank into Rukj's flesh, at the top of his right shoulder, with an unpleasant sound. The wolf let out a yelp of pain, stopping on the spot so as to not worsen the situation or cause the bull's steel to move from where it was.

-Rukj! -Raon exclaimed in alarm. He tried to move, but Raizac grabbed his shoulder and stopped him. When the Human looked pleadingly, the bull simply shook his head.

Sek watched his enemy with a gleam of triumph flashing in his eyes, despite struggling to keep his expression neutral.

-I guess this makes me the victor, outlaw -he simply said, while he forced the sword down. Rukj let out a cry of pain and was forced to drop to his knees, while the steel of the sword tore the flesh a little deeper into his shoulder -. But, anyway, that was what you meant, is not it?

Rukj watched him, trembling with pain, as he clenched his teeth.

-I...

-Why don't you tell everyone here before I kill you for the crimes you have committed? -Sek asked, adding more strength to the sword and causing Rukj to cry out in pain -. All of those on your side who trusted you, believing that you would come out of this battle victorious... but I know the truth. Rukj. Lift up your head and tell the truth for once, before all of us: admit the fact that you haven't wanted to kill me at any time.

Rukj gave him a fierce look, trying to contain the pain and gathering what little dignity he had left while still prostrate before the bull.

Behind him, Raon held his breath.

-You've always had a problem, outlaw -Sek continued, raising his chin as he cast a glance of absolute superiority -. You've never been able to follow orders. You always had to act according to your feelings. We may never prove it and at first glance you can seem impassive, but I know the reasons why you act. You saved this Human motivated by compassion, not only disobeying the orders of your superiors, but your whole race. And today, driven by the same compassion, you decided to leave me alive, just because you can not kill an old comrade in arms -he paused for a moment -. You can look very tough, but inside you are weaker than anyone.

Inoa let out a scornful laugh from the other side of the field of battle, which caused Raon to glare at her with an incendiary stare. However, the Human knew, now that Rukj had lost the battle, his destiny was set.

He would be captured by Sek and taken back to Ronod.

And yet, he could not worry about that. At that time, all he could think about was that Rukj was about to die because of him, for trying to defend him for all those years... Something inside him was writhing in pain at that possibility, just knowing that someone was sacrificing his life for him and he could do nothing.

It was an injustice against which he could not do anything. It was far worse than simply being helpless.

-In the end, what did you accomplish? -Sek continued -. You have wasted your life protecting this Human over the years. He will be taken and put him to an end too, as he should be tried for his crimes. Like you, outlaw -Sek again watched him with contempt -. Now I will list your crimes, Rukj Jirnagherr. You disobeyed the orders of your superiors in the battlefield. You betrayed your whole race to save the life of an enemy. You planned a revolution with Kara's Cubs Order aiming to overthrow our society. You murdered the men who fought to stop your bloodthirsty frenzy.

There was a short silence charged with tension.

-And for all this I, Sek Urunna Commissioner of Frost Moon, shall condemn you to be executed -concluded the bull, while extracting steel blade from Rukj's shoulder with a quick movement and lifted it over his head, ready to put an end to the existence of this annoying obstacle for once and for all.

-No! -Raon cried, extending a hand towards Rukj and trying to escape Raizac's grip, without success.

Unable to see the scene, the Human closed his eyes tightly.

The sound of cold steel slicing through flesh rose from the middle of the little valley and an exclamation of surprise and pain was heard with a chilling clarity. Raon shook as if he had been the one who had received that wound and squeezed his eyes tighter until they hurt, not knowing exactly what to do. However, after a while he opened his eyes, convinced that he had not heard Rukj's voice...

The scene that was found was very different than the one he had imagined and filled him with immense relief. At his side, Ailec let out a soft sigh.

-What... how dare you... ? -Sek groaned, his eyes wide, his hands holding his stomach, where Rukj's sword had sliced it from side by side.

The wolf took a few seconds to respond, still with one of his paws on the handle.

-You've always had a problem... Commissioner -he said softly -. Although you consider yourself to be the representative of justice in Frostmoon, you spent your whole life following orders. You have always fought for the cause of others or the concept of justice that someone had already written someday for you. That is why you do not know... have no idea of the strength that you find when you fight for something you really believe in.

Sek opened his mouth to speak, but his throat was full of blood and only let out a few guttural sounds. Even with a terrified expression of surprise, the bull dropped to his knees and Rukj made sure to hold him up and carefully placed his forehead against the bull, almost as if for a few seconds he had forgotten he was his enemy.

In these circumstances, at end of the day, he no longer posed a threat.

-When you really want something, you make enormous sacrifices to get it -Rukj continued, gradually seeing the glint in the bull's eyes was fading -. You thought I would not be willing to kill for it. But you were wrong.

The bull drew a last death rattle, still with a horrified look upon his face and finally stopped breathing. Rukj's eyes watched him for a while, watching the life that one day had harbored finally disappear, beyond the comprehension of any Human or Beast.

-I'm very sorry, pal -he whispered, finally closing his eyes -. But I have a dream to fight for.

In silence he lay down the lifeless body of the bull on the ground and closed his eyes, bowing slightly as a sign of respect for that death. After all, in the past he had shared many years of his life with Sek, and although circumstances had placed them on opposite sides, Rukj could not help thinking that, in his situation, he probably would have acted the same way.

He wasn't too many time bowing, though.

After a few seconds of silence, the black wolf stood up and addressed Sek's men with a threatening look, who watched the scene with a wide range of expressions on their faces.

-Leave -he simply said.

-But who do you think you are?! -Inoa then shouted, advancing a few steps and moving towards Rukj, with a flash of hatred in her eyes -. Sek should have killed you! He is the Commissioner of Frostmoon! He is...!

-I said -Rukj repeated with a dangerous tone in his voice, as he fixed his deep eyes, charged with contempt, upon the hare -leave.

Inoa hesitated for a moment, intimidated by the wolf.

Finally, she seemed to understand that she had no hope if she remained in that place, especially due to the fact that many of Sek's men, faithful to the promise that their leader had made with Rukj, had turned around and were heading back to camp. The hare clenched her fists and gritted her teeth, full of anger.

-You will kill us all! -she cried, kicking, as she began to back away -. We will all die because of you! And when you have finished with our world, you will remember our words and you will know how stupid you were!

That said, she turned and began to follow Sek's men, still trembling with rage. Raon did not take long to lose sight of her once she was lost among all the Beasts that made up the troops Frost Moon. However, at that time he had more important things to think about.

Raizac had approached Rukj and was examining the wound in his shoulder, with a critical eye. The young Human approached both, with worried look.

-It is not serious -the bull finally said -. Although it doesn't look very good. We should try to treat it somehow before leaving in search of Jarek.

Those words were like a bucket of cold water to Raon.

-What... what did you just say? -he asked, unable to believe what he had just heard.

Raizac then noticed his presence and watched him for a moment, not knowing quite what to say. Confused, the leader of the caravan exchanged glances with Rukj, he closed his eyes and let out a sigh of resignation. Ailec, meanwhile, had looked away while biting his lip with nervous gesture.

-What happened? -the Human repeated, feeling increasingly upset having received no answer to his question -. Where is Jarek?

-Raon, calm down. We will not get anywhere if...

-I will not calm down. Where is Jarek? -he repeated, with somewhat higher voice, backing away a step.

Ailec placed a paw on the shoulder of his father, who was still analyzing the damage of Rukj's wound. Raon was prepared for the worst.

-I lost sight of him during the attack on the camp -the bull explained, his shoulders slumped, pausing while taking a breath -. Raon... Jarek has disappeared.